After reading the first page I knew that I would love this book. Jane Harper’s writing style pulls me in immediately. There is no doubt in my mind that I will be reading every book she publishes going forward. This is her third book and I loved them all. THE LOST MAN is my favorite.

This is a story about three brothers trying to make a living on their cattle ranches in a very remote part of Queensland in the Australian Outback. Harper makes you feel the heat, the dust clinging to your face and in your eyes, the panic of being out in the isolated landscape without water or food. Life is so harsh here. Neighbors and family are hours away. It’s easy to get into trouble...

The novel is narrated by Nathan. The oldest son of the Bright family. A lonely, isolated man who has little contact with his family or town due to a mistake he made years ago. His brother, Cam, has just been found dead in no mans land where an old stockman’s grave is the only thing in sight for hours. Everyone is shocked. Cameron runs the family ranch. He is well liked by the community. Why would he commit suicide by leaving his well stocked car and head out into oblivion?

This is the story of one brother trying to figure out how and why his brother died. It’s dark. Suspicion runs rampant. Present and past is brought together in pieces to get to the answer. There are only a few characters in the book, but that’s what makes it outstanding. As the story progresses we learn more and more about the brothers, Cam’s wife, their mother, the abusive father who is now gone, and the community.

This is a beautifully written mystery / suspense thriller, and one I highly recommend.

Michael wrote: "Terrific review. Sold me. Already have high expectations from the first two and the lineup of reservations at my rural library where I am on the list."

So glad you have this author on your list, Michael. You won’t be disappointed. Terrific. I have a cabin , now that my parents are gone, with my brother in Cornish, Maine. Are you close by my good friend?

Paula wrote: "...So glad you have this author... I have a cabin ....Cornish, Maine...Are you close..."

No. Five hrs away in mpst eastern tip of state. Check pics at my profile picture spot for a flavor.

Was impressed with Harper's first, but #2 felt mpre average. Glad this 3rd is on a high plane. Many serials take the author awhile to gain consistent freshness within the familiar frame of the world of characters and place they create. Paul Doiron has a series set in Maine, and they seem to get better in recent years--hope you check them out sometime.

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